CALGARY: Tango Bistro

I dread restaurants that say they specialize in “sharing plates,” “small plates,” or tapas. A lot of the time, it’s a token concept that brings small portions and high prices, mediocre cold cuts or overly fussy concoctions.

So I was leery of Tango Bistro, the latest venture from the Smuggler’s Group that runs Smuggler’s Inn, Open Sesame, and Bolero in the same complex on Macleod Trail.

If the first impression was any indication, this was going to be a good night. Tango has carved a modern — but not trying-too-hard — space out of a large part of Smuggler’s Inn. Endless dark wood paneling and a dusty, pirate-like bar has been replaced with a glass wine cellar and high ceilings. Windows are actually allowed to bring light in.

For a devoted meat eater like myself, Tango’s non-meat dishes really shone. The roasted pear and gorgonzola flatbread ($9) was an amazing blend of vibrant pesto, crunchy pine nuts and sweet vincotto.

A vinaigrette of white truffle and alfalfa honey lifted the crunchy sweetness of the roasted heirloom beet and apple salad ($9.50).

Another dish of note was an opulent beef short-rib poutine ($8.50) with real cheese curds.

The only letdown was the intriguing-sounding turducken skewers ($9). They ended up being these funny lollipops of turkey bacon wrapped around a sliced log of duck and chicken sausage. The taste was just off — it just seemed salty — and so was the texture.

Daily dessert “shot” specials ($2.50) are actually served in shot glasses. The rocky road was our favourite (brownie, toasted marshmallows, chocolate and caramel sauce) which we scooped out with tiny sugar spoons — a cute way to get your sweet fix.

Fore more, check out my Metro Calgary review.

The menu is split into two sections called “Ours (shareable)” ranging from $6-$14 and “Mine (single serving plate)” ranging from $8.50 to $12.50. But really, any of the dishes could be shared. For two of us, five dishes and a bit of dessert was more than satisfying and not too shabby on the wallet too.

Tango has a unique drinks menu and wine list. It’s a great place for sharing a bottle of wine (or two) or sipping on cocktails, while also enjoying the sharing plates that hit the spot. Try to make reservations, especially on the weekends.

Tango Bistro, 6920 Macleod Trail South, Calgary, (403) 252-4365. Reservations recommended.
Open Monday to Thursday 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m.-midnight, Sunday 4:30 p.m.-11 p.m.